It is always wonderful to plan a trip. There are many sights around the world to see and experience. You might be travelling for business or you may be going to an exotic destination to simply enjoy some rest and relaxation. Whatever the case might be, there is likely to be quite an expense involved. This is why it is helpful to know what your rights are in the event that your plans are interrupted for any reason that has nothing to do with you. Here are some general guidelines that you will want to keep in mind when it comes to travel compensation.
What To Do When Your Flight Is Cancelled
When it comes to flight cancellations, your entire trip could be at risk. This is particularly true if you have an important business meeting or presentation to attend. Determining what type of compensation you are entitled to, often involves knowing the exact reasons that a flight was cancelled in the first place. In most cases, the airline is expected to try to get you on the next available flight if at all possible. In some situations, you will be entitled to a refund if the cancellation should have been avoided. This refund is due to the EU 261. As stated by Travel Refund, “The EU261 is legislation that was passed in the European Union in 2004 that allows passengers to claim compensation for delayed or cancelled flights.” It is important to ask questions and be aware of your rights throughout the process.
What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed
Flight delays are another concern when travelling. If the delay is more than a few hours, there are certain rules that govern what type of compensation you are entitled to. You will want to file a flight delay claim as soon as possible so that you can take advantage of prevailing laws and regulations in the location where your delay occurred. You may be entitled to a cash refund, travel vouchers, or other types of compensation that are designed to make up for the inconvenience that has been caused during your trip.
Food and Lodging Vouchers
When your flight is delayed or cancelled, you will often incur certain expenses that were not anticipated. This includes food and lodging. Depending on the nature of the delay or cancellation, the airline will offer you vouchers to help with this expense. Make sure that you get these and make use of them.
Speaking to the Airline
Your first point of contact in getting the compensation that you deserve is to speak directly to the airline. It is always helpful to do this while you are at the airport if possible. If you cannot get the resolution that you need, then you will want to call the airline and ask to speak to someone who can help you file a flight delay claim.
These are just some of the areas you need to be concerned with when travelling. The key thing to remember is that you have rights. As such, it is important to know who to speak with and what questions to ask if your travel plans become interrupted for any reason.